That can’t be much of a surprise to anyone, but it sure is risky for Senate Democrats. They have to defend 21 Senate seats in 2012. Moreover, the ObamaCare bill was front-loaded, with its more palatable aspects taking effect before the more onerous and expensive ones.

Assuming the Republicans’ repeal and de-funding efforts fail, the Democrats’ many promises — you can keep your insurance! it will contain costs! — will continue to fall apart, and the bill is likely to become less popular. Defending it through the next election cycle will not be much fun.